Stroud’s cherished outdoor pool, Stratford Park Lido, is set to reopen this Saturday, 15 August, much to the delight of local residents who campaigned tirelessly to save it.
The historic 1930s lido was initially declared unsafe earlier this year and scheduled to remain closed due to significant long-term repairs required. However, following strong public demand, Stroud District Council allocated £476,000 for urgent maintenance to enable the pool to reopen this summer.
Save Our Lido Stroud (SOLS), the volunteer group instrumental in the campaign, has warmly welcomed the decision. Caroline Molloy, campaign lead for SOLS, expressed gratitude to the community, stating: “We are so grateful to everyone who showed up, spread the word, and demonstrated the importance of preserving our lido. This reopening is thanks to all who emailed councillors, attended meetings, signed petitions, and supported fundraising efforts.”
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The council has also announced plans to borrow £900,000 for further long-term improvements, pending future approval by councillors.
Leaders across political groups at Ebley Mill collectively thanked residents, council staff, the public, and contractors Beard Construction for their collaboration in making the reopening possible. Mayor Chloe Turner of the Green Party emphasised the lido’s significance, saying: “The Lido is a much-loved part of our district’s heritage and community life, and we know residents will be delighted to see it reopen.”
Labour group leader Katy Hofmann, Conservative Lindsey Green, and Liberal Democrat Linda Cohen also extended thanks and highlighted ongoing efforts to secure the pool’s future.
To celebrate the reopening, SOLS and Stroud District Council have organised a weekend of family-friendly activities, including live music, a new mural unveiling, and entertainment hosted by the Active Lifestyles team. On Saturday, a café selling snacks and drinks will open poolside, enhancing the visitor experience.
The pool itself has undergone essential refurbishment: the 55-yard-long tank has been relined and repainted, the pump refurbished, walls and paving repointed, and the baby and toddler pool refreshed. Safety improvements include temporary fencing discreetly covered with bunting.
Visitors are encouraged to use alternative transport where possible due to limited parking.
Opening hours on Saturday will include lane swimming from 9 to 11 am, public swimming sessions from 11 am to 2 pm and 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm, followed by late lane swimming until 6.45 pm. Sunday’s schedule features DJ performances beside the pool, with similar swim sessions commencing at 10 am.
Council officials hope to extend the pool’s open season into September, subject to demand and weather conditions.
Since opening in 1937, Stratford Park Lido has been a treasured summer destination, offering a unique, spring-fed outdoor swimming experience amid the beauty of Stratford Park. A 2017 consultation confirmed its name as Stratford Park Lido, reflecting the community’s enduring affection for this historic site.